1972 Porsche 917/10

The Porsche 917/10 was introduced in 1972 as a purpose-built race car with a specific focus on the Can-Am series in North America. It was designed to dominate the competition with raw power and technical innovation, featuring a unique open cockpit design for increased aerodynamics and an aggressive appearance.

Under the hood, the 917/10 delivered a stunning performance with its mid-mounted 5.0-liter flat-12 engine generating an impressive 900 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful race cars of its time. This power was achieved through the incorporation of dual turbochargers, which provided a significant boost in performance and allowed the car to reach top speeds of up to 240 mph.

The engine was paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox and a lightweight chassis that was constructed from aluminum and magnesium materials, providing unparalleled handling and response. The car featured a fully independent suspension system with adjustable dampers, adjustable sway bars, and adjustable torsion bars, allowing the driver to tailor the handling characteristics to suit their specific driving style.

The Porsche 917/10 also featured an advanced aerodynamics package that included a massive front splitter, large rear wing, and integrated side skirts, providing optimal downforce and stability at high speeds. The car also incorporated a unique cockpit design that reduced drag and improved airflow to the engine.

To further enhance the performance of the 917/10, Porsche utilized advanced engineering techniques and materials such as titanium, magnesium, and carbon fiber. This resulted in a car that was not only incredibly fast but lightweight and agile as well.

Overall, the Porsche 917/10 of 1972 is a testament to Porsche's commitment to technical innovation, putting a powerful and agile race car on the track that challenged the limits of what was possible at the time. With its incredible engineering and raw power, the 917/10 remains one of the most beautiful and iconic race cars ever made.